Thousands of people descended on Hinckley town centre at the weekend as the fifth annual Soap Box Derby took place.

Organised by Hinckley BID, the fun-filled event sees racers put their pedal to the metal as they dart down Castle Street and this year saw a record 43 cars enter.

One of the organisers, Steve Wegerif, said: “We want to thank the teams and their supporters very much for entering Hinckley BID’s fifth annual Soap Box Derby and for helping so many to have such a great day out in Hinckley town centre.

“Every team must be congratulated on the standard of their vehicles – some were superbly crafted in engineering workshops and others lovingly assembled at home with nails, glue and string. All were a real credit to their owners.”

The fastest single time on the day for the over 18s category went to Boal Aluminium from Ibstock who were also crowned overall fastest team, and the Stoke Golding Scouts 1 secured the fastest single time for the 12 to 17 category.

Mr Wegerif said: “Congratulations to all the juniors for their courage and skill, some were very close to the seniors in timings.”

Other successful teams included The Achievers who took home best turned out soap box and crew, The Smurfs who won best novelty soap box, and Team Bintley who were awarded most enthusastic drivers.

The Mayor of Hinckley and Bosworth, Councillor Jeff Bannister, was there on the day with his wife Trish to hand out the winners’ trophies.

Hinckley BID still have one shield to award for the team that raised the most money for charity.

Anyone who took part and raised money is asked to contact Hinckley BID by tomorrow with details of how much they collected and for which charity.

Organiser Jonathan White added: “Our grateful thanks go to all the event assistants and first aiders for their help on the day and in particular to our mayor and his lady. Without team spirit such events would be impossible to organise and run.”

For more information about upcoming events organised by Hinckley BID visit www.hinckleybid.co.uk